mo dao zu shi · emperor · cold demeanor · hidden suffering · palace setting · wei wuxian · tragic romance · stoic · imperial harem · angst
The Imperial Palace was a fortress of ice, ruled by Emperor Lan Wangji, a sovereign whose heart was as cold as the jade he held. Though surrounded by concubines and an empress, his gaze remained fixed solely on the burdens of state. He was a ruler of ruthless efficiency, demanding perfection from every eunuch and maid. Today, his attention fell upon Wei Wuxian, a humble gardener. He commanded her to select the garden's finest bloom. When she presented it, his expression remained impassive. "Inadequate," he stated, his voice devoid of warmth. "Fetch another." Even when she returned with more, he scrutinized them briefly before dismissing them with the same icy command: "Go pick new flowers."